You probably have heard about salt water pools, or maybe even enjoyed dipping in one a few times. However, the real pleasure of salt water pools comes from owning and maintaining them. Requiring less maintenance than chlorine pools, salt water pool owners report a more enjoyable experience without the presence of as many chemicals to keep the water sparkling.
The first misconception of salt water pools is the “salt” aspect – it is barely noticeable and very mild. The salt level, or salinity, of a salt water pool is going to be about 1/10 of the salinity of the pacific ocean. The level of salt in the pool is minimal because only very little is needed to keep it clean with a piece of equipment called a “salt chlorine generator.”
A salt chlorine generator will be installed with your pump equipment. Inside the salt chlorine generator is a series of metallic grids with low voltage which converts the salt (Na+Cl) to little bubbles of pure chlorine and water (Cl+H2O). This generator will wear down over time and the cell of metallic grids will need to be replaced every 4-6 years, depending on usage.
What are the benefits of owning a salt water pool?
These are the common primary advantages of a saltwater pool:
- Gentle on skin and eyes – a primary reason for many owners or loved ones with sensitive skin
- Clear, smooth water – the water feels silky smooth because of the salt.
- Lower total cost of ownership – no longer have to hassle with big buckets of chlorine.
- No chlorine smell – no chlorine to burn your eyes or smell when in pool.
What are some concerns of owning a salt water pool?
While most owners will share that owning a salt water pool is a no-brainer, there are several concerns to keep in mind when planning your backyard:
- Salt water generators require maintenance every few years ($500-1,500).
- Easy to forget about water testing – chlorine levels can build up in a salt water pool and can damage equipment if not checked regularly.
- Owning a salt water pool does not mean you can neglect maintenance – while there is less maintenance, it is not a ‘set it and forget it’ mentality – owners still must keep water chemistry balanced.
What are my next steps to get a salt water pool?
If you decide that a salt water pool is the best fit for backyard plan for outdoor living, Proscape wants to make sure you have all the information you need to make the right decision. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, we would be delighted to help in every step of the process.